PILOT KNOB, N.Y. --- William E. (Bill) Mullane, 82, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2013.

Bill was born and raised in Bridgeport, CT, son of the late Bridgeport Police Dept. Sgt. Thomas and Florence (Knablin) Mullane. He graduated from Bridgeport Central High School, in 1948 he enlisted in the United State Navy including service as a Radarman aboard the USS Kenneth D. Bailey (DD-713), was Honorably Discharged in 1952 and continued his association with United State Navy for the rest of his life.

After Naval service Bill returned to Bridgeport, beginning a 32 year career in the insurance industry. He partnered with Bill Flynn and founded the Merit Insurance Agency of Bridgeport, Connecticut. He was also active in local politics serving on the Parking Authority, as a Fire Commissioner. In 1973, Bill was nominated as the Democratic Candidate for Mayor of Bridgeport. In addition to his political activism, he was involved in many community organizations, including the Bridgeport PAL Christmas Village, Hundred Club of Connecticut, and the Irish Scholarship Fund. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends at the Venetian Garden and the Algonquin Club, where he was an accomplished gin player and drinker.

In 1985 he retired to Pilot Knob, where he participated in the National Association of Destroyer Veterans (Tin Can Sailors), the Pilot Knob Association and the Volunteer Fire Department. Bill was also an avid reader and a so-so checker player. His time spent swimming, boating in the "Curracin" on Lake George with his dog "Louie" and trips to the Algonquin, Bolton or The Montcalm provided him hours of enjoyment. In 1990 he proudly attended his daughter Karin's graduation from the United States Naval Academy.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Capt. Thomas Mullane USN (Ret.)

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Pat (Mingoue) Mullane; five children, Kevin and wife Susan, Brian, Ellen, David and wife Sarah, and Capt. Karin and husband Capt. Michael Vernazza USN; six grandchildren Corey, Kelsey, Lauren, Patrick, Erin and Colleen; his sister Carol Laprise and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of the Stanton Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Glens Falls, NY for outstanding care.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Pilot Knob Fire Department, 1847 Pilot Knob Road, Kattskill Bay, NY 12844.

Private memorial arrangements will be communicated to family and friends.

Condolences may be mailed to Maynard D. Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or e-mailed through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.